IRELAND · SORA 2.5
SORA 2.5: Step-by-Step Guide for Drone Operators in Ireland
The Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) is a systematic approach for evaluating risks in planned UAS operations under the EASA regulatory framework. EASA introduced version 2.5 on 29 September 2025 through an update to the AMC/GM for EU Regulation 2019/947. For UAS operators in Ireland, it is essential to specify the SORA version used when applying for operational authorizations with the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), helping ensure clarity and avoid confusion between editions. This guide explains how to apply SORA 2.5 in Irish operations and under IAA oversight.
1. Define the Concept of Operations (ConOps)
The first step involves clearly and comprehensively documenting the ConOps. This requires detailing the operation’s scope including the drone(s) involved, operational volume, airspace type, roles of crew members, communication methods, and normal as well as contingency procedures. A precise ConOps is essential to enable a consistent and reproducible risk assessment.
A thorough ConOps forms the foundation of your SORA risk assessment and is critical when submitting your Operational Authorisation request to the IAA.
- Specify the exact operational volume and location within Irish territory.
- Identify the category and class of airspace and comply with any national restrictions or Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs).
- Describe the UAS system, including sensors and supporting equipment.
2. Assess Ground and Air Risks
Using the defined ConOps, assess risks to people on the ground and to other airspace users. SORA 2.5 requires applying the latest EASA-approved methodologies for evaluating ground risk considering factors like population density and sensitive areas, and air risk based on air traffic frequency and airspace class.
It is critical to document all data sources, assumptions, and methods transparently, referencing authoritative materials such as Irish population maps or airspace usage data where applicable. Only mitigations that are demonstrably implemented and verifiable should be incorporated in the assessment.
- Use EASA’s current risk assessment models consistent with Irish airspace and ground environment.
- Record the origin and nature of all data (e.g., official Irish geographic and airspace data).
- Include only mitigations that are implemented and can be evidenced.
3. Determine the SAIL and Operational Safety Objectives (OSOs)
Combining ground and air risk assessments yields the SAIL for your operation, indicating the required safety assurance and integrity level. This SAIL determines the OSOs that must be met to mitigate identified risks.
Each OSO must have clear supporting evidence, assigned responsible parties, and a record of any outstanding actions. This process ensures accountability and transparency in managing operational risks, as required by the IAA when reviewing your Operational Authorisation dossier.
- Identify your SAIL according to the SORA 2.5 guidelines.
- Develop clear, measurable OSOs addressing risk mitigations, system capabilities, and procedures.
- Maintain documentation of evidence and responsible persons for each OSO.
4. Containment and Completion of Evidence
Containment ensures the drone remains within defined operational boundaries both on the ground and in the air, maintaining risk within acceptable parameters. This involves defining geographic containment volumes and technical or procedural barriers.
Emergency procedures (ERP), technical dependencies of UAS subsystems, and operational documents such as the Operational Manual and emergency response plans must be aligned and documented consistently. Only when all evidence and procedures are coherent and complete can the SORA risk assessment be considered closed for submission to the IAA.
- Define containment measures for operational areas and associated risk zones.
- Assess and manage technical interfaces and failure modes critically.
- Ensure consistency across ConOps, Operational Manual, ERP, and test documentation.
Frequently asked questions
Is SORA 2.5 the most current version of the risk assessment method?
Yes. EASA published SORA 2.5 in September 2025 as an update to the AMC/GM under EU Regulation 2019/947. Operators applying in Ireland should always specify the version they are using, as IAA may apply transitional arrangements during updates.
Can DroneManual provide a fully approved SORA calculation?
No. DroneManual supports the structured preparation of risk assessments and evidence gathering, but the operator remains fully responsible for assumptions, methodology, calculations, and formal submission to the IAA.
What is the role of containment within SORA 2.5?
Containment refers to the set of technical and operational measures that keep the UAS within its approved operational boundaries, thereby limiting risk exposure to people and other airspace users.
How does SORA 2.5 promote transparency in risk management?
By requiring documented Operational Safety Objectives (OSOs) aligned with evidence and assigned responsibilities, SORA 2.5 ensures risk controls are traceable and verifiable by authorities such as the IAA.
What distinguishes SORA from PDRA?
SORA is a specific, detailed risk assessment tailored to complex or novel UAS operations within the Specific category. PDRAs are pre-defined, pre-approved risk mitigations designed to simplify authorization for standard scenarios.